here's mandy clark in afghanistan. >> in afghanistan being a doctor can be a front line position. but even back from the fighting, the men and women of the u.s. military have tough jobs and the medical problems to match. >> this one started today. >> reporter: an experienced eye makes all the difference. and few are more experienced than dr. john burson, an ear, nose and throat specialist from bill rica, georgia -- georgia. he may not have seen it all but brings history to his work in kabul. >> they are not quite sure whether i'm a father figure or grandfather figure. >> reporter: and what does he take away from the experience? >> i carry with me mostly an appreciate for the incredible sacrifice that i see among the young people here and the real dedication, the love of country. it's an opportunity to come back and sort of pay back a little bit to your country. >> reporter: dr. burrston is a volunteer with the reserves this is his fourth tour since 2005, two in iraq and two in afghanistan. he joined the army back in 1955 but never saw combat, missing korea and vietnam. he was out